A train trip from Bidston to Folkestone Central takes about 6hrs 54 mins on average, covering roughly 241 miles (388 kilometres). With around 14 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £49.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Folkestone Central |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Bidston |
Frequency | 14trains per day |
Journey Time | from6hrs 8 mins |
Changes | 3-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:36 / 23:33 |
Distance | 241miles (388 km) |
2 Routes | Via Liverpool Lime Street & Sheffield & London St Pancras International Via Liverpool Lime Street & London Euston & London St Pancras International & Ashford International |
5 Train Operators | Southeastern, First TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Merseyrail |
Prices | from£49.50 |
Hop on a Train from Bidston to Folkestone Central – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Bidston to Folkestone Central by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!
On average, the journey takes around 6hrs 54 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Folkestone Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 6hrs 8 mins. With roughly 14 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 241-mile (388 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Southeastern, First TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Merseyrail, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!
The best part? Tickets start from just £49.50 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.
So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Folkestone Central!
The travel time between Bidston and Folkestone Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 6hrs 8 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Bidston to Folkestone Central is 6hrs 8 mins.
Train ticket prices from Bidston to Folkestone Central can start from as little as £49.50 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Bidston and Folkestone Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 14 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:36, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:33.
First class tickets on trains between Bidston and Folkestone Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Bidston and Folkestone Central can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bidston and Folkestone Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Folkestone Central, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bidston & Folkestone Central. However, there are 14 possible journeys which require a change.
Southeastern, First TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast and Merseyrail are the main train operating companies running services between Bidston and Folkestone Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bidston and Folkestone Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 28th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 11:06 Bidston | 15:48 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International Ashford International | 4 hrs 42 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:06 Bidston | 17:05 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:06 Bidston | 18:04 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:36 Bidston | 18:31 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street Stafford London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 55 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:06 Bidston | 18:48 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International Ashford International | 4 hrs 42 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:06 Bidston | 19:48 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International Ashford International | 4 hrs 42 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:06 Bidston | 20:50 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International Ashford International | 4 hrs 44 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:06 Bidston | 22:02 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:06 Bidston | 23:02 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:16 Bidston | 00:01 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street London Euston London St Pancras International | 4 hrs 45 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 20:16 Bidston | 08:02 Folkestone Central | 4 changes | Liverpool Lime Street Crewe London Euston London St Pancras International | 11 hrs 46 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:46 Bidston | 09:02 Folkestone Central | 3 changes | Liverpool Lime Street Sheffield London St Pancras International | 11 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
Bidston train station, nestled on the Wirral Peninsula, serves as an important junction within the Merseyrail network, seamlessly connecting passengers across Merseyside. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a first-time visitor, or planning an exploratory journey, Bidston station offers a straightforward travel experience. Despite its modest size, it remains a crucial point from which to access a plethora of nearby attractions and travel conveniences.
The services at Bidston station are designed to cater to the needs of its passengers, although facilities are somewhat limited. The ticket office operates extensive hours from the early morning until past midnight on most days, ensuring ample time for ticket purchasing and collection. However, if you rely on an automatic ticket machine, you'll need to visit during opening hours as they are not available at this station. Online tickets can be easily collected from the ticket office.
Accessibility is a primary consideration, though it’s notable that the station has a Category C accessibility rating due to the lack of step-free access to platforms. For those requiring step-free access, Leasowe station is the nearest alternative. The station is equipped with salt card smartcard validators, an induction loop, and carefully planned seating areas, though accessible toilets and ticket machines are absent.
Safety is a priority here with CCTV coverage, yet the station lacks certain conveniences such as refreshment facilities, ATMs, and shops. For travelers who cycle, secure and sheltered bicycle storage is available free of charge, with 30 storage spaces overseen by CCTV for added security.
While Bidston does not house a taxi rank, there are alternatives. For those needing to catch a bus or looking for bespoke onward travel plans, travelers can get helpful details by contacting Traveline or checking the Mersey Travel website. For passengers headed to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, combined rail/bus tickets can conveniently be purchased at any Merseyrail station to cover the journey seamlessly.
Bidston's strategic location makes it a perfect springboard to explore nearby destinations. Venture to vibrant Liverpool Central with a quick, efficient connection or enjoy a leisurely ride to tranquil destinations like West Kirby or Hoylake. For business or pleasure, you have direct routes to key commercial hubs such as Birkenhead Park and Liverpool Lime Street.
Other trains from Bidston can take you to unique spots such as the historic New Brighton or the scenic views at Shotton. With such a variety of destinations, Bidston enables easy exploration of the northwestern reaches of the UK.
While it may not offer the grand amenities of larger stations, Bidston successfully stands as a well-connected gateway, rich with journey possibilities on the Wirral Peninsula. With planned changes to enhance its accessibility and services, the station not only supports local commutes but encourages broader explorations from its quiet locale.
As you prepare to journey from Bidston, whether it's a short trip or a more extended adventure, ensure you've purchased your tickets in advance for a seamless travel experience. Ready to explore? Set your course and allow Bidston to be your launchpad into the myriad of experiences that await.
Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Folkestone Central train station serves as a vital hub for travelers heading towards the scenic coastline or venturing further afield. Whether you're setting off for a day at the beach, exploring the captivating landscapes of southeast England, or embarking on a journey to bustling London, Folkestone Central provides convenient and reliable services. Let's delve into the array of amenities that ensure your journey from Folkestone is both comfortable and efficient.
Stepping into Folkestone Central, you're greeted by a welcoming environment that caters to all your travel necessities. For those purchasing or collecting tickets, the station boasts a ticket office open from Monday to Saturday, 6:00 to 19:00, and on Sundays from 8:10 to 17:40. Ticket machines are available for added convenience, with the capability to collect pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is a priority here, with an induction loop and accessible ticket machines located in the booking hall.
For individuals requiring assistance, there are customer help points and detailed staff support available. Travel information features through comprehensive departure screens and announcements, ensuring you are always updated with the latest schedule information. While luggage storage isn't available, you can rest easy knowing CCTV is in operation for enhanced security.
Passengers with mobility needs can navigate the station effortlessly thanks to step-free access across all platforms. Facilities such as accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and wheelchairs ensure a barrier-free environment. The station also offers four accessible parking spaces, although accessible car park equipment is not installed. Heated waiting rooms and adequate seating areas make waiting for your train a comfortable experience.
Beyond rail services, Folkestone Central is well-connected by other modes of transport. If your journey continues by bus, you'll find information for onward travel plans and services easily accessible from the station. The rail replacement bus stop is conveniently located just beyond the station, details of which can be accessed through this link.
The station hosts a taxi rank at the front, ready to whisk you away to your next destination with little fuss. If you're planning routes either locally or further afield, various bus services also run near the station. More detailed information and printable timetables can be found here.
When it comes to destinations, Folkestone Central opens up a world of possibilities. Direct trains to bustling hubs like London St Pancras International and London Bridge allow for swift access to the capital's numerous attractions. For international journeys, a quick hop to Ashford International connects you to Eurostar services.
Coastal escapes abound with trains to Dover Priory and Ramsgate. The historic city of Canterbury, known for its stunning cathedral, is also a short journey away. The station makes it easy to set off on adventures across Kent's enchanting countryside.
Folkestone Central isn't just a station; it's a gateway to countless experiences awaiting exploration. From leisure travelers to daily commuters, the station assures a smooth and accommodating travel experience. With various connections and travel conveniences, your journey from Folkestone Central could just be the start of your next great adventure. So, why not jump on board and see where the tracks might take you next?